Testing US Strategic Patience With India – OpEd

The recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia has sparked a wave of concern in the United States, highlighting the fragile and sometimes inconsistent nature of India’s strategic alignments.

U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, speaking at a conclave on India-U.S. defense relations, expressed that the outcomes of Modi’s Moscow trip were less substantive than expected and underscored the necessity of deepening bilateral ties beyond the current state of complacency. This scenario brings to the fore a critical evaluation of India’s reliability as an ally, particularly in the context of global conflicts and geopolitical dynamics.

India’s Ambiguous Stance on Russia

India’s decision not to openly criticize Russia’s actions in Ukraine has been a contentious issue. Western nations, especially the United States, have been advocating for a unified response against Moscow’s aggression. However, India’s reluctance to take a firm stance, particularly following the missile attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv, where Modi’s remarks fell short of condemning Russia, signals an unreliable allyship. This ambiguity in India’s foreign policy raises questions about its commitment to shared democratic values and international peace.

Diplomatic Rhetoric vs. Concrete Actions

Garcetti’s remarks highlight a critical gap between diplomatic rhetoric and concrete actions. While India publicly endorses peace and stability, its strategic decisions sometimes suggest otherwise. The U.S. ambassador emphasized the need for aligned actions, stating, “…we must not just stand for peace, we must take concrete actions to make sure those who don’t play by peaceful rules, that their war machines cannot continue unabated.” This call for tangible measures underscores the necessity for India to reassess its geopolitical alignments and prioritize partnerships that foster shared security interests and democratic values.

The Fragility of the India-U.S. Relationship

Despite the expansion of India-U.S. relations, the bond remains insufficiently deep, as highlighted by Garcetti. The relationship, though strong on the surface, is fraught with underlying tensions and inconsistencies. Bipartisan consensus in Washington underscores the importance of this alliance, yet acknowledges its fragility. India’s unpredictable foreign policy decisions, particularly its engagement with Russia, often strain this partnership, calling into question India’s reliability as a steadfast ally in times of global crises.

Geopolitical Alignments and Strategic Partnerships

India’s geopolitical alignments often reflect a balancing act between major global powers, aiming to maintain autonomy and strategic leverage. However, this balancing act sometimes results in perceived unreliability. The recent Modi-Putin discussions, devoid of explicit condemnation of Russia’s actions, exemplify this precarious stance. For the U.S., which values clear and decisive partnerships, such ambiguity can be disconcerting. Garcetti’s emphasis on strategic partnerships that prioritize shared values and security interests is a reminder for India to reassess its foreign policy priorities.

Civil Rights and Democratic Values

India’s stance on international issues, particularly civil rights, also raises concerns. The global community, especially the West, scrutinizes India’s approach to civil rights and its alignment with democratic values. Garcetti’s acknowledgment of American doubts about India’s actions emphasizes the need for India to align its domestic policies with its international commitments. For India to be seen as a reliable ally, it must address these concerns and demonstrate a consistent commitment to democratic principles and human rights.

To move forward, both India and the U.S. need to work towards deepening their bilateral ties. This involves more than just diplomatic engagements; it requires building trust through consistent actions and shared commitments. India must recognize the importance of aligning its strategic decisions with its declared values and the expectations of its allies. The U.S., on its part, should continue to engage India constructively, addressing concerns and fostering a partnership based on mutual respect and shared goals.

The current geopolitical landscape necessitates reliable and consistent alliances. India’s position as a global player is significant, yet its actions often reflect an unreliable allyship. The call from the U.S. to deepen bilateral ties and align actions with diplomatic rhetoric is not just a critique but a necessary step towards a more stable and predictable partnership. For India, this means reassessing its strategic alignments, prioritizing shared values, and demonstrating a commitment to international peace and security. Only through such measures can India and the U.S. forge a truly reliable and robust alliance.